Pacific journalists barred from Albanese press conference

Journalists from the region attending the 54th Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands, were barred yesterday from attending a press conference with the Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.

Mr Albanese arrived yesterday for the leaders meeting.

The arrival of Albanese to the media center after the PIF plenary session, for the press conference was very discreet, with Australian journalists only aware.

NBC journalists on the ground were told "the presser was only for Australian journalists."

An Australian journalist living and working in Fiji was also not allowed initially, but after raising concern was allowed in.

Journalists from the region, in attendance have raised serious concerns about this treatment, some commenting it is not the first time, this has happened - citing a similar instance in Tuvalu, in 2023.

Australian Journalist Stefan Armbruster expressed grave disappointment with this treatment, and says "this has to stop and Pacific journalists treated with respect."

On his way to the Pacific Resilience facility treaty signing last night, Albanese responded to Armbruster's question on this.

"I have no idea what you're talking about mate", the Australian Prime Minister said.

NBC News is seeking comments from the Pacific Islands News Association [PINA].